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See also: Article on PawPaws
PAWPAW
The pawpaw or papaw is the largest edible fruit native to the United States. They are indigenous from northern Florida to Canada and as far west as Nebraska. Pawpaws has a unique blend of tropical flavors, combining banana, pineapple and mango.
Common names for the pawpaw are ‘poor man’s banana,’ ‘American custard apple,’ and ‘Kentucky banana.’
The skin color of ripe fruit on the tree ranges from green to yellow, and dark flecks may appear, as on bananas. The skin of picked or fallen fruit may darken to brown or black. Ripe pawpaw fruits are easily picked, yielding to a gentle tug. Shaking the tree will make them fall off. Ripeness can also be gauged by squeezing gently, as you would judge a peach. The flesh should be soft, and the fruit should have a strong, pleasant aroma.
For extensive information about pawpaws visit the
Kentucky State University Pawpaw website:
http://www.pawpaw.kysu.edu/
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